Voith and HeiTech have been awarded a contract to modernise the Temengor, Bersia, and Kenering hydropower plants with a total capacity of 472 MW in Malaysia. The project will extend the operational lifespan of the stations while increasing annual output.
By Joanne McIntyre, Stainless Steel World
The consortium comprising Voith and HeiTech Padu Berhad (HeiTech), a technology company located in Malaysia, has been awarded the contract to modernise three hydropower stations operated by TNB Power Generation Sdn. Bhd. (TNB Genco) a subsidiary of Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) as part of the Life Extension Program (LEP).
The project includes the Temengor hydropower station, which features four Francis turbines, each with a capacity of 100 MW, the Bersia plant, equipped with three vertical Kaplan turbines, each with a capacity of 24 MW and finally, the Kenering station, which has three Francis turbines, each with a capacity of 40 MW. All these power stations are located on the Sungai Perak, in the northern part of Malaysia. Furthermore, the project includes the Bersia Group Control Centre for operations and control of all river cascade power station.
Extended operational lifespan
The multimillion-euro order covers the rehabilitation of turbine-generator units, automation systems, and electrical and mechanical balance of plant auxiliary power station systems. The primary objectives include extending the operational lifespan of the stations and increasing the annual output of select turbine-generator units. Notably, the Temengor Hydropower Station is expected to achieve a 15% boost in output capacity. “This modernisation of our hydropower stations by Voith and HeiTech represent a significant step towards ensuring a sustainable and reliable energy supply in Malaysia. We look forward to this collaboration and the positive impact this project will have on our energy infrastructure, supporting TNB’s energy transition initiatives,” a TNB Power Generation Sdn. Bhd. representative says.
The modernisation initiative marks a pivotal phase for the customer TNB Power Generation Sdn. Bhd.’s LEP, as it reflects Malaysia’s commitment to maintaining and upgrading its hydropower assets while ensuring reliable and sustainable energy supplies. Post-upgrade, the three stations are poised to deliver enhanced performance and renewed operational excellence.
Stainless in hydropower
Stainless steel is a key material used in hydropower stations due to its resistance to corrosion and mechanical stress.
It’s commonly used in the following components to ensure the reliability and efficiency of these components.
Turbine blades and shafts: Stainless steel can withstand the mechanical forces and high-impact speeds of water flow, as well as corrosion from the water itself. It also offers good resistance to erosion, crucial in turbines that handle silt-laden water.
Penstocks and spillways: Stainless is used in penstocks, which transport water from the source to the turbines under high pressure, and spillways, which help control water flow and prevent flooding. Gates: Stainless steel, and particularly duplex, can be used in dam structures to prevent gate failures and corrosion-related issues.
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